Implementing ISO/IEC 17025 provides both laboratory and business benefits such as:
Gaining more contracts for testing and/or calibration. All ISO 9001 certified companies will prefer to engage a laboratory that is accredited with ISO 17025 as this will be a requirement that is looked into by the certification body auditor during re-assessment or surveillance audit.
Improved national and global reputation and image of the laboratory.
Having a basis for most other quality systems related to laboratories, such as Good Manufacturing Practices and Good Laboratory Practices.
The main difference between accredited and non-accredited laboratory is that the competency of staff and reliability of test/calibration results have been proven and verified.
Technical requirements were updated to include the addition of formal personnel training plans and detailed records, method development and validation procedures, measurement of method uncertainty, equipment calibration and maintenance program. In addition, a stronger definition of the sample preparation process was documented to maintain consistency in sampling, and a more rigorous quality control monitoring program was implemented. Management quality improvements focused on document control to maintain consistent analytical processes, improved monitoring of supplier performance, a contract review process for documenting customer requirements, and a system for handling customer comments and complaints, with continuous improvement through corrective and preventive action procedures and audits.
Quarterly management review of corrective actions, nonconforming testing, and proficiency testing aid in determining long-term trending. The practical benefits of these technical and management quality improvements are seen on a daily basis in the laboratory. Faster identification and resolution of issues regarding methods, personnel or equipment, improved customer satisfaction, meeting quality requirements of specialized customers, and overall increased laboratory business are all the result of implementing an effective quality system.
Accreditation is an effective marketing tool for testing, calibration and measurement organizations, and a passport to submit tenders to contractors that require independently verified laboratories.
Laboratory accreditation is highly regarded both nationally and internationally as a reliable indicator of technical competence. Many industries, such as the construction materials industry, routinely specify laboratory accreditation for suppliers of testing services.
Unlike certification to ISO9001, laboratory accreditation uses criteria and procedures specifically developed to determine technical competence, thus assuring customers that the test, calibration or measurement data supplied by the laboratory or inspection service are accurate and reliable.
Many accreditation bodies also publish a directory of their accredited laboratories, which includes the laboratories’ contact details plus information on their testing capabilities. This is another means of promoting a laboratory’s accredited services to potential clients.
Finally, through a system of international agreements (see later in this brochure) accredited laboratories receive a form of international recognition, which allows their data to be more readily accepted in overseas markets. This recognition helps to reduce costs for manufacturers and exporters that have their products or materials tested in accredited laboratories, by reducing or eliminating the need for retesting in another.
Note:
SAMM - Malaysian Lab Accrediation Scheme
